Ash Grove Primary Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 10 May 2023

Pupils are proud of their school. They are polite and well mannered. Pupils understand the school values of respect, responsibility, appreciation and aspiration. They welcome the rewards they receive for showing the values in and around school. Pupils behave well because leaders have set clear expectations. They follow the rules of ready, respectful and safe. Pupils understand the difference between bullying and falling out. They learn how to recognise bullying and tell adults should it occur. Pupils know that trusted adults are there to help with any concerns that they have. As a result, pupils feel safe. Pupils are aware of the possible dangers in the community and know how to deal with issues should they arise. Pupils value the opportunity to take on leadership responsibilities, such as anti- bullying ambassadors, well-being ambassadors, playleaders and librarians. They are proud to be selected by their peers. Pupils learn about fundamental British values through assemblies. They recognise difference. These differences are celebrated at key points in the year, for example on International Women's Day. Parents and staff care about the school and the local community. They want the best possible outcomes for pupils. Pupils say the best aspect of school life is their teachers because, 'they look after us and they are kind to us.'

What the school should improve

• Some parents and staff are not happy about leaders' communication with them, including the way that their concerns are dealt with. This has resulted in low staff morale and parental dissatisfaction. Leaders, including those responsible for governance, should prioritise improving communication and engagement with staff and parents.
• In some subjects, for example history and science, teachers do not have clear enough guidance about the specific knowledge that pupils need to be taught. This means that pupils do not remember or build on key concepts from the planned curriculum. Leaders should ensure that the curriculums identify the precise content that pupils need to know and remember.
• Some pupils do not attend school often enough. These pupils miss out on important learning and do not make the progress of which they are capable. Leaders should continue to develop the recently implemented systems to ensure that parents understand the importance of regular attendance and its impact on their children's outcomes.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)